On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. Identify physical evidence and determine its significance and value.
2. Explain the use of basic scientific methodology as it applies to the collection, analysis and interpretation of forensic evidence.
3. Describe the basic principles of collecting and conserving forensic evidence and give examples of standard procedures for maintaining evidence integrity and continuity.
4. Apply identification concepts and methodologies to the collection, analysis and interpretation of evidence.
5. Describe the value of trace evidence to forensic investigations, and explain the ways in which it may be collected and analysed.
6. Evaluate case studies to illustrate a range of possible deficiencies in the way in which forensic evidence may be collected, analysed and interpreted.
7. Critically evaluate the role of expert witnesses in the justice system.
8. Communicate the results of forensic investigation correctly in written form, using an appropriate language style, placing the findings in context of the forensic investigation.

Explanation of what is considered physical evidence and the purpose of collecting and analysing physical evidence
Basic scientific methodology as it applies to the collection, analysis and interpretation of forensic evidence
Principles of collecting and conserving forensic evidence, including crime-scene protection, contemporaneous note taking, chain of custody, and quality management
Presumptive testing and its role in crime scene investigation
An introduction to spectroscopy and its incorporation in crime scene investigation
The concepts of evidence integrity and continuity
History of the concept of identification and its development
Identification concepts and methodology, including pattern matching / comparative analysis, classification, elimination of suspects and databases
Analysis of a range of forensic evidence and its interpretation within the concept of identification
The role of the expert witness within the justice system, including presentation of evidence, and an introduction to the Australian judicial system
An introduction to contemporary issues in forensic science
Quality Control and Quality Assurance in evidence handling and forensic analysis
A range of case studies, including satisfactory and unsatisfactory use of forensic evidence